Docent Program

Docent Program Open House
The application process to become a docent-in-training has reopened. Please join us at the Museum on Monday, October 23, 2023 at 1pm for our annual Docent Open House. Learn about the program from staff and docents themselves, including a behind-the-scenes tour of the Museum. To RSVP, contact Megan Byrnes at mbyrnes@hrm.org or (914) 963-4550 x247.

What is the Volunteer Docent Program?

DOCENT, noun, from Latin docent-, docens, present participle of docere: A person who leads guided tours especially through a museum or art gallery

This entry in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary merely suggests the scope of what a docent is. Rooted in the Latin for “teach,” docents at the Hudson River Museum are active community members who volunteer their time, training, interpersonal skills, and expertise to ensure the best possible museum experience for children and adults. Their work with visitors in the galleries stresses enjoyment and learning in art, history, and science. In the course of teaching others, they consistently expand their own learning.

In preparation to lead museum gallery experiences, docents attend weekly training sessions featuring guest artists and speakers, behind the scenes tours with curators and museum educators, docent best practice, and field trips to area museums and historic sites. In return for their substantial commitment of time throughout the year, the HRM offers its docents museum membership privileges, invitations to exhibition openings, continuing education in art, history, and science, special exhibition previews, use of the Docent Library, and free admission to numerous museums.

Contact Us

Saralinda Lichtblau
Assistant Director, Education
(914) 963-4550 x241
slichtblau@hrm.org

Megan Byrnes
Manager, School Programs
(914) 963-4550 x247
mbyrnes@hrm.org

Museum Membership

All docents are required to be Members of the Hudson River Museum. Upon acceptance into the training program you may join the Museum at any level you choose.

Docent Council & Council Fees

The Docent Council meets monthly to discuss the docents’ activities and special programs. Council fees cover trips and related activities. These annual dues are currently $25, payable at the start of docent training and at the beginning of each school year thereafter.

Program Achievements

We congratulate all the docents who have been awarded the honor of Mayor Mike Spano’s Community Service Award: